Another adaptation of a novel. The biggest plus of this film is seeing the great Eva Marie Saint in a supporting role. Always a treat to see a classic actress from days gone. At 89-years-old at the time she looks great! More great casting with Colin Farrell doing a great job in a role many might not have seen him in. Shows that he is not just a good looking man, but possesses some talent. Russell Crowe, with his gravitas, once again shows that casting him as a villain is not a mistake. The rest of the talented cast is rounded out by Matt Bomer, William Hurt and Jennifer Connelly.
The book/film is not your typical romance. There is an odd fantasy aspect incorporated in the love story. It attempts to blend reality with fantasy with it not coming off successfully at all times.
Growing up rough in New York City as an orphan, Irish native Peter Lake (played by Colin Farrell) is a trained master mechanic. Still life is hard. On a cold, blustery night Peter decides he is going to rob a mansion on the Upper West Side. Believing the house is empty he goes about his thievery. He is wrong as the daughter Beverly (played by Jessica Brown Findlay) is home. Despite the circumstances the two fall in love.
It is true and pure love between Peter and Beverly. They do not allow their different social classes to come between them. What eventually will is the fact that Beverly is dying. How can the lovers manage to stay together? Is magic real? Watch Winter’s Tale and find out.
In a tale that spans over a century and is filled with a poetic nature, bottom line this is the age old battle between good and evil. Some might find its nature rather schmaltzy. I agree with that, but there is no effort by anyone involved to pretend otherwise. It wears its large heart proudly upon its sleeve. Some might have a problem with the somewhat religious nature of the story. Lucifer, demons and angels are involved.
Those who read the book might come out with a disappointed reaction to the film version. Really the adaptation of novel to screen is a big ask for anyone. They are two totally different mediums and as such must be judged for what they are. Even if you have read the book (and had the words on the page expanded upon by your imagination) you have to go into the film version with an open mind. It will be different on screen.
This s not a story that is based upon reality. It involves magic, mysticism, poetry, and most importantly, the power of love. To appreciate the film to its fullest you have to go with it. Just revel in the portrayal of love. Don’t sweat the details. It is obviously not an attempt to depict reality, rather an imaginative look at the beautiful side of romantic love.
New York City is one that was made to have films shot there. It is beautiful in part and striking in others. In Akiva Goldsman’s Winter’s Tale it shows a very mystical and magical side. Really creates the appropriate setting for this left of center romance. Plus it is shot magnificently by cinematographer Caleb (interestingly a very religious name) Deschanel.
Special Features:
-Behind the Scenes: Winter’s Tale: A Timeless Love